Aurora police constantly remind motorists to buckle up and put down their cell phones and this Friday, May 20, they will see how their safety messages are being followed when they stage an operation aimed at seatbelt enforcement and illegal use of cell phones while driving.

While not divulging the time or location of the detail, they are promising the operation will be sizeable and will be spearheaded by the Community Policing Unit with assistance from other Aurora Police divisions and the Kane County Sheriff’s Office. The objective is to increase awareness, promote safety and reduce traffic crashes.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, 549 people who died in traffic crashes from 2009 to 2013 were not wearing seat belts. Studies have also shown that texting while driving increases chances of motorists being involved in a crash by 23 times.

During the operation, officers will only be stopping motorists and passengers who are not buckled up or drivers who are illegally talking or texting on a cell phone. Motorists who are stopped will also be checked for outstanding warrants and driver’s license statuses.

SOURCE: Aurora Police Department news release